Amazing space marshmallows

The resource gives instructions for how to repeat this demonstration in your own laboratory, if you have access to a vacuum pump. The resource also includes an explanation of the phenomenon.

Students could make marshmallow men using toothpicks, marshmallows and permanent markers. These marshmallow men could then be put in a bottle and observed as the bottle is evacuated. Students could then try to explain what would happen if the marshmallow men tried to invade Earth without a spaceship. They could then design a spaceship that is able to withstand the vacuum of space.

Additional Information

This website was developed by the Institute of Physics.

Australian Curriculum:

Year 5 > Science Understanding > Earth and Space Sciences > The Earth is part of a system of planets orbiting around a star (the sun) > ACSSU078